Herbed Rösti Potato Cake
Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 28 Jan 2026
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This herbed potato rösti cake is a masterclass in texture, offering a beautifully crisp, golden exterior that gives way to a tender, buttery middle. Infused with aromatic fresh thyme, this Swiss-inspired vegetarian dish elevates the humble potato into something truly elegant. The secret to its success lies in parboiling and chilling the potatoes overnight, which ensures the starch sets perfectly for a coarse, distinct grate that won't become mushy during frying.
Whether you are looking for a sophisticated vegetarian main or a comforting side dish to accompany a Sunday roast, this versatile potato cake fits the bill. It is particularly delicious served with a dollop of soured cream or as a base for poached eggs at brunch. Simple to prepare yet impressive to serve, it is a reliable favourite for any home cook looking to sharpen their skillet skills.
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Ingredients for Herbed Rösti Potato Cake
1.4kg large Yukon gold potatoes (about 7)
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
Salt
Freshly ground black pepper
5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 tablespoon olive oil
Special equimpent: A four-sided grater
10-inch well-seasoned cast-iron skillet or 12-inch deep nonstick skillet
How to make Herbed Rösti Potato Cake
Back to contentsCover potatoes generously with well-salted cold water in a large pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer potatoes, partially covered, until they are just barely tender, 20 to 25 minutes.
Transfer potatoes to a colander using a slotted spoon, rinse under cold water to stop the cooking, and dry.
Chill potatoes on a plate, uncovered, at least 8 hours.
Peel potatoes and coarsely grate into a large bowl. Add thyme, 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, and 3/4 teaspoons pepper, then drizzle with 2 tablespoons butter and toss mixture well.
Heat oven to 191°C with rack in middle.
Heat oil and 1 tablespoon butter in skillet over medium-high heat until foam subsides, then add potato mixture and tamp it down firmly in skillet with a rubber spatula, smoothing the top.
Reduce heat to medium and cook potato cake, covered with a lid, until edges begin to turn golden, about 5 minutes.
Remove lid, then bake potato cake, uncovered, 10 minutes.
Brush top of potato cake with remaining 2 tablespoons butter.
Turn on grill and grill potato cake, 4 to 5 inches from heat, until golden brown, 3 to 7 minutes.
Remove skillet from oven carefully (wear oven mitts!). Run the rubber spatula around the edge of the cake to loosen it from the skillet.
Invert a large round heat-proof plate over skillet and invert potato cake onto plate.
Cut into wedges and serve.
Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.
Article history
The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
28 Jan 2026 | Originally published
Authored by:
UK recipe editors
Peer reviewed by
UK recipe editors

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